by Mark Hamby

We who preach and write, do so in a manner different from which the Scriptures have been written. We write while we make progress. We learn something new every day. We speak as we still knock for understanding...If anyone criticizes me when I have said what is right, he does me an injustice. But I would be more angry with the one who praises me and takes what I have written for Gospel truth than I would be with the one who criticizes me unfairly. -Augustine

Romans 12 is one of the most practical and comprehensive chapters in the Bible when it comes to Christian worldview. The statement that speaks to me the most is: “Outdo one another in showing honor.” Can you imagine what would happen in our marriages, our parenting, our neighborhoods, and our relationships at work if this was practiced? Another statement that stirs my heart is: “Do not be slothful in zeal…” We are to serve the Lord with a fervent zeal! This doesn’t mean that we live fanatically as a loose cannon without a sense of tact, composure, elegance, and self discipline. But with a zealous speed, we are to serve the Lord. I say because the word for in Greek is meaning. We are to redeem our time seizing every opportunity with a sense of urgency. Maybe today we can speedily seize every opportunity to outdo one another in showing honor, loving with a brotherly affection. As the Apostle Paul wrote “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, and serve the Lord. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Let’s not wait until tomorrow to start…let’s start with the next person that crosses our path…without delay! Well for me, it’s time to take the garbage out! Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.